CHEYENNE — The anticipation for hunters has been building for months and alas, the time has come or is rapidly approaching as seasons for big and small game are about to open across Wyoming. Some trends — good and bad — figure to hold true once again in 2024. Mother Nature always plays a role in hunter success and animal survival, but how much?
Whether you are after pronghorn along the plains, deer or elk in the mountains, bighorn sheep high in the mountains or birds along the flatlands and wetlands, check out the 2024 Wyoming Game and Fish Department hunting forecast from eight regions around the state. The forecasts from each regions are based on field data and observations by department biologists and game wardens.
A few reminders:
Before heading out be sure to review the 2024 hunting regulations for season changes.
- Hunters who harvest a deer or elk in any of the state’s chronic wasting disease focus areas are encouraged to get it tested. The information is incredibly valuable and will help the department’s long-term monitoring and management efforts.
- Hunters and recreationists are reminded to be mindful of the spread of invasive species and to report locations of cheatgrass to the county Weed and Pest District.
- All licensed (daily, annual, pioneer and lifetime) sage grouse hunters will be required to carry an annual, free sage-grouse hunting permit to help Game and Fish further expand efforts to survey sage-grouse hunters on their hunt experience.
Pronghorn
Populations in the Casper Region have fluctuated in recent years. Some herds around Casper have remained at or near population objectives, while herds to the northeast from Douglas to Lusk to Sundance are still far below objective. Between 2021-23, pronghorn numbers generally declined due to harsh winters coupled with poor fawn survival and periodic disease outbreaks. In some cases, herds that were well above objective have dropped to objective. In other places, like northeast Wyoming, hunting seasons have been extremely conservative to allow pronghorn numbers to rebound. Thankfully, substantial pronghorn losses were not realized in much of the Casper Region during the winter of 2022-23 despite severe conditions in much of the state. This was partly because pronghorn numbers were well below what the landscape could support. The good news is that following better fawn production and survival last year most herds have begun to recover. Regardless, most of the region’s pronghorn populations are still under objective, with conservative hunting seasons in place for the foreseeable future. Despite numbers remaining below-desired levels in much of the region, hunters should experience average to high pronghorn harvest success as buck ratios remain strong and license issuance is structured in an attempt to ensure high success for hunters.
Mule deer
Populations have decreased or remained stable throughout the region over the past several years, and all of the region’s populations remain well below management goals. This is due to persistently poor survival of mule deer caused by droughts, changes in habitat conditions, disease in some herds and predation. Despite lower-than-desired numbers, buck ratios remain high in most herds, and hunter success should be good for those hunters hunting on private land and in limited quota areas. Hunters on public land in general license areas should expect low to moderate success due to lower numbers of deer and conservative hunting seasons. In the Black Hills, the deer season will run Nov. 1-20, with antlered deer hunting only as mule deer numbers are still low. Hunters lucky enough to draw a license in conservatively managed limited quota areas should see good buck ratios with modest trophy potential. In Hunt Areas 10, 34 and 89 most prime-age, mature bucks don’t grow large antlers compared to mule deer in other parts of the state. However, these herds are managed for good numbers of older-aged bucks and produce some nice deer each year. Thankfully, 2023 provided an extraordinarily wet spring and early summer, which led to good over-summer fawn survival, while bolstering the nutritional condition of adult females. As a result, most mule deer herds did not continue to decline in 2024, but have leveled off or begun to improve slightly. However, it will take several more years of good fawn production and survival to improve hunting.
White-tailed deer
Populations throughout the region experienced substantial die-offs in 2021, and in some areas to a lesser extent in 2022 due to outbreaks of epizootic hemorrhagic disease . Consequently, 2023 saw very low numbers of white-tails in most of the region, especially in the Black Hills. Despite being only a couple of years removed from the large-scale EHD die-off, numbers have begun to rebound in the Casper and Douglas areas. As a result, more generous hunting seasons have been set to prevent rapid population growth. Hunters are reminded the vast majority of white-tailed deer occupy private lands. The notable exception is the Black Hills, where white-tailed deer numbers have just begun to increase but are still historically low. Hunters should expect low to moderate success filling their general deer license, especially on public land in the Black Hills.
Elk
Numbers remain at or above objective in all Casper Region herds, and hunting seasons continue to be liberalized in most areas. The region continues to provide excellent bull-hunting opportunities, with many limited quota areas boasting high harvest success and good antler quality. Hunters should find decent success pursuing younger bulls on Type 2 and 3 licenses in Hunt Areas 7, 117 and 122, but should check the regulations for these areas and license types as they vary with regards to season dates and the type of bull that may be taken. Antlerless elk hunting should again be good, although high hunter numbers on public lands often result in reduced success compared to private lands. In Hunt Area 7, Type 4 and 6 license quotas have been reduced, and the early season for these licenses of Aug. 15 – Oct. 14 was removed. However, with the reduction in these license types, an unlimited Type 8 cow/calf license is being issued. This license will be valid mainly on private lands during the early season and valid area-wide off U.S. Forest land starting Oct. 15. Unlimited Type 8 licenses that are restricted to private land are also available for Hunt Areas 117 and 122 where the seasons run Aug. 1 –Jan. 31. In Hunt Area 126, unlimited Type 8 licenses are available, which are valid on private land only between Aug. 15-Sept. 30, but valid in the entire area Oct. 1–Jan. 31. All of these Type 8 licenses are unlimited in number and not subject to the three license maximum per license holder. However, Game and Fish strongly recommends hunters not purchase a Type 8 license unless they have secured access to hunt on private land. Finally, in the Rattlesnake elk herd (Hunt Area 23), the 2024 season structure remains unchanged for Type 4 and 6 licenses, while the Type 1 license is now also valid in the northeast corner of Hunt Area 128 from Nov. 1 –Dec. 15.
Spring and summer conditions throughout the Big Horn Basin have produced average to above-average precipitation and lower temperatures through July. In addition, the 2023-24 winter was relatively mild across the region. These conditions bode well for wildlife within the Cody Region. If conditions continue and there is good late-summer/fall precipitation, wildlife populations should benefit.
Pronghorn
Pronghorn populations and hunting success continue to be down throughout the Big Horn Basin, and a conservative framework remains in place for the 2024 hunting seasons in a majority of these areas. The northern portion of the Big Horn Basin’s pronghorn herds are relatively stable. Early field observations suggest good fawn production throughout much of the region. For those who drew pronghorn licenses within the region, hunting should be slightly better than last year.
Deer
Winter survival appears to be at or above average throughout much of the region. Focal herd data suggests overwinter survival is higher in the Bighorn Mountains mule deer herds than the Upper Shoshone herd. Fawn production appears to be slightly better than last year based on early season field observations. The region observed improved fawn production in most of the deer herds during the 2023 deer classifications. A majority of mule deer herds within the region are currently below population management objectives. Hunters should expect conditions and success to be similar to 2023. Prolonged drought and increasing chronic wasting disease prevalence have had a negative impact on Big Horn Basin herds over the past several years. Managers are hopeful the recent positive trends in precipitation will provide a needed boost to mule deer populations in the region.
Elk
Most herds continue to perform well within the region, with a majority of the herds at objective. Based on improved precipitation and early field observations, calf production is up this year. Because of this, elk hunters should expect good elk hunting within the Cody Region again this year. One significant change to the 2024 elk regulations is the combination of Elk Hunt Areas 53 and 54, and the splitting off a portion of Hunt Area 54 east of Highway 120, and adding the area into Hunt Area 65. These changes were made to provide better options to address elk management challenges within the Clarks Fork elk herd. Additionally, there was a new Type 9 hunt (archery only) added into Hunt Area 61 for the 2024 season.
Moose
Herds within the region have been performing better over the past several years. The Bighorn Mountain herd saw a slight reduction in the 2023 trend count and as a result, quotas were reduced to address this change. Data collected for Hunt Area 9 in the Absaroka herd suggests good calf production in 2023. Managers are observing a slight increase in moose numbers in Hunt Area 11, particularly within the Sunlight Basin area.
Moose hunters fortunate enough to have drawn a license should expect good moose hunting conditions and success this year. Moose hunters are encouraged to provide teeth from their harvested animals (lower center two incisors) to assist Game and Fish in their moose management program. Additionally, hunters are encouraged to bring the head of their harvested moose to Game and Fish to allow biologists to collect CWD samples and carotid artery worm samples to better monitor disease.
Bighorn sheep
The Absaroka (Hunt Areas 1-5) and Devils Canyon (Hunt Area 12) herds are located within the Cody Region. Sheep numbers are within management objectives for the Absaroka herd, and have recently fallen below objective in the Devils Canyon herd due to a recent disease die-off. It is estimated that the die-off reduced the Devils Canyon herd by 40%, but we have observed promising lamb recruitment thus far and anticipate the herd will recover. Ram licenses within the Devils Canyon herd were slightly increased from 2 to 3 Type 1 licenses, and a new Type 2 license was created with five licenses for any ram less than three-quarter curl. These new Type 2 licenses are designed to focus harvest on younger rams to prevent them from wandering out of the Devils Canyon herd and potentially returning with new diseases. Licenses within the Absaroka herd were reduced in Hunt Areas 3 and 4 due to fewer mature rams observed during 2024 sheep surveys, and lower hunter success in these areas. Hunt Area 5 licenses were increased due to an increase in the number of sheep observed and improved hunter success during the 2023 season. Those fortunate to have drawn bighorn sheep licenses within the region should enjoy good hunting this fall.
Mountain Goat
The Beartooth herd (Hunt Areas 1, 3 and 5A) is within its population management objective. The 2024 season structure has been designed to stabilize or slightly increase goats in Hunt Area 3 while maintaining harvest levels within Hunt Area 1. Licenses in Hunt Area 3 were reduced for the 2024 season as goat populations are nearing their management objective. Additionally, Hunt Area 3 Type 2 license holders will also be allowed to hunt within Hunt Area 5 to prevent goats from moving south into Hunt Areas 3, 4 and 5. Hunt Area 1 licenses remained the same for 2024. Those fortunate enough to have drawn a mountain goat license should have a good hunt.
Upland game/small game
The region has received similar precipitation to last year, thus continuing the recent trend of good upland/small game habitats. Upland bird hunters should expect similar or slightly improved hunting conditions compared to last year. Chukar and Hungarian partridge are rebounding but still not at the peak of their cycles, and field managers are not seeing as many broods as they normally do when populations are high. Early observations from field managers suggest sage grouse production may have improved from last year. Rabbit hunting should be similar or slightly improved from last season.
Wildlife disease management
Hunters are encouraged to assist wildlife managers in the collection of wildlife disease samples. If you receive a brucellosis sample kit in the mail, please carry the sample kit and collect a blood sample from a harvested elk. Additionally, there are several priority chronic wasting disease sample collection hunt areas within the region. Game and Fish asks hunters who harvest deer or elk in priority areas to provide the head and a few inches of the neck so biologists can collect a CWD sample. Priority deer areas include the Southwest Bighorn Herd (Hunt Areas 35-37, 39, 40 and 164) and the Shoshone River herd (Hunt Areas 121-123). Elk priority areas are the Cody Elk herd that consists of Hunt Areas 55, 56, 58-61 and 66. Submit samples at a Game and Fish check station or call the regional office at (307) 527-7125 to make arrangements.
The Green River region experienced a mild winter in 2023-24 in terms of duration and overall mild temperatures. Winter precipitation received was significant, however, in lower elevations, it melted off frequently, keeping important winter ranges open. In general, wintering ungulates likely performed well this year because of winter conditions and exceptional range conditions in the region. Winter moisture seen in the region helped jumpstart the range conditions with good initial woody leader growth, as well as forb and grass production. That being said, as we have proceeded into the summer months, precipitation has been light through most of the region and things are starting to dry out. If this trend continues, it could have impacts on species in the region. It is worth noting that fuel accumulations seen after the winter of 2022-23, in conjunction with dry conditions, could create wildfire risks within the region.
Pronghorn
The Green River Region encompasses six pronghorn herds. Pronghorn numbers are still down across much of the region due to continuing productivity issues and harsh winter conditions seen in 2022-23. However, there is variability in where these suppressed pronghorn numbers are seen. While slightly suppressed in numbers, the southern hunt areas of the Sublette Herd should still offer quality hunting experiences. A similar outlook should be expected for the Uinta-Cedar Mountain and Carter Lease pronghorn herds. Most of these herds experienced great range conditions from the previous winter’s moisture and it is likely that herd productivity will increase. The Baggs and Bitter Creek herds experienced declines from the previous winter and are still overcoming those deficits. The South Rock Springs Herd has shown to have higher numbers of pronghorn in the northern hunt area when compared to the southern portion of the herd. Lower populations across the region resulted in a continued conservative approach on Type 1 (any antelope) license allocations.
Mule deer
In 2022-23, extreme losses were documented on winter ranges in the Wyoming Range and Uinta mule deer herds through GPS collaring efforts. Similar winter conditions were observed in the Baggs Herd, and it is likely that deer survival was very similar in this area. These herds are still recovering, and a good portion of the age classes hunters select for will be down. Due to these reasons, conservative seasons are again in place for 2024. Sportspersons should expect tough hunting conditions in the following general hunt areas; 82, 132-135 and 168. General hunt areas 100 and 131 have low-density deer numbers and will continue to have conservative seasons in 2024. Hunters will likely have to put forth significant effort to find mature bucks in these hunt areas. The South Rock Springs deer herd (Hunt Areas 101 and 102) did not see the extreme winter conditions in 2022-23 as elsewhere in the region, and some older age classes will likely be available for hunters. In past observations, this herd typically responds favorably to above-average winters with increased fawn ratios and survival, likely due to improved range conditions in this otherwise arid area. Fawn production is expected to be up in other parts of the region, as the majority of females coming into the summer of 2024 were greeted with exceptional range conditions resulting in improved body conditions. Improved body condition in conjunction with a mild winter should result in great fawn productivity. With most of the region’s deer herds still under management objectives, finding older bucks will likely be tough throughout the region, particularly in the low deer-density desert habitats.
Elk
Most herds in the Green River region are at or above population objectives going into the 2024 hunting seasons. Elk hunting should remain good in the region, including the special management herds in Hunt Areas 30-32 and 100. Mature animals are being observed and hunters could have opportunities to harvest nice bulls in the region this fall. General season structures were liberalized with added opportunity for antlerless elk for the 2023 season, and those seasons were carried forward this fall. Cow hunting opportunities continue to remain liberal throughout much of the region where the increased harvest is warranted, particularly in hunt areas 102-107, in an effort to move populations toward the Commission-approved objectives. Managers are expecting an average or above-average elk harvest this fall, depending on weather conditions and hunter effort.
Small/upland game
Hunters should find similar opportunities for cottontail rabbits in 2024-25 throughout most of the region, which are an often under-utilized resource. Cottontails are being observed, but not in numbers that would indicate a significant increase. Snowshoe hare habitat is limited within the region, but opportunity exists in some of the higher elevations. Upland game opportunities should be similar in 2024 to previous years. There should be ample dusky grouse opportunities in the Sierra Madre and Wyoming Range. Ruffed grouse opportunities exist on the north slope of the Uintas in the Wasatch National Forest and the Wyoming Range. Sage grouse peak male attendance this last spring generally exhibited increased males being observed. Populations are still working out of the bottom of the population cycle, but there is potential for decent hunting opportunities for sage grouse within the region. If dry conditions persist going into late summer and early fall, there could be impacts on brood survival and overall production going into September. Hunters should still expect to put in significant effort to find sage grouse, but quality opportunities still exist. Other upland opportunities exist within the region for partridge but are somewhat limited.
Pronghorn
The Jackson Region harbors a small migratory segment of the Sublette antelope herd in Hunt Area 85. During the 2022-23 winter, pronghorn wintering in the Pinedale region experienced extreme winter mortality as a result of unprecedented winter severity as well as an outbreak of Mycoplasma bovis. This prompted an emergency rule to close Hunt Area 85 for the 2023 hunting season. The closure was continued for the 2024 season. Regional managers will continue to assess the recovery of the Jackson segment of the Sublette herd and may recommend to the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission to reauthorize hunting seasons in future years as appropriate.
Mule deer
Portions of the Sublette and Wyoming Range herds are managed in the region, including Hunt Areas 150-152, 155-156 and 144-146. Both herds experienced substantial winter mortality due to severity during the 2022-23 winter, and the herds are still recovering. As a result, the Commission approved several changes to the 2023 season, which will continue for the 2024 season with shorter season lengths and no doe/fawn opportunity for youth hunters. New this year is a four point antler restriction and further reductions in the nonresident quotas. The impacts of the 2022-23 winter winter were significant and Game and Fish managers continue to closely monitor these herds. Similar to last season, hunters should expect to see significantly fewer deer on the landscape this fall. However, we expect to document increased survival, body condition, fawn production and herd recovery in upcoming years, similar to what we have documented following previous severe winters. While the 2024 season will have fewer deer, restrictive season structures, and fewer nonresident hunters, Game and Fish is confident that harvest will not restrict the growth potential of these herds in this or future years. Hunters are encouraged to have their deer tested for chronic wasting disease by bringing the head to a Game and Fish regional office or hunter check station.
The Jackson Region also includes the Targhee mule deer herd in Hunt Area 149 along with Hunt Area 148 of the Dubois mule deer herd, both of which contain low deer densities and see limited hunter numbers and harvest.
White-tailed deer
Small populations may be found near riparian habitats throughout the region, and all hunt areas in the region offer the opportunity for hunters to harvest white-tailed deer during the general season. There are limited quota Type 3 (any white-tailed deer) and Type 8 (doe/fawn white-tailed) deer licenses available to provide additional late-season opportunities. Any hunter holding a Type 3 or Type 8 white-tailed deer license for the combined hunt areas of 148, 150, 151, 152, 155 and 156 may obtain permission slips to hunt on the National Elk Refuge. Permission slips can be obtained on the Game and Fish website. Hunters are encouraged to have their deer tested for chronic wasting disease by bringing the head to a Game and Fish regional office or hunter check station. Mandatory sampling is required for white-tailed deer harvested on the National Elk Refuge.
Elk
The region manages four herds (Jackson, Fall Creek, Afton and Targhee) that currently contain at least 16,000 elk and are within management objectives. These areas provide a wide range of hunting opportunities and vary from early-season rifle hunts for branch-antlered bulls in the Teton Wilderness to late antlerless elk seasons on private lands to address elk damage to stored crops and commingling with livestock. Hunters should expect to see typical elk numbers in most hunt areas. Hunt Area 75 (Grand Teton National Park) season structure remains unchanged from the 2023 season and reflects an effort to shift management toward population maintenance as opposed to population reduction based on survey data and herd unit objectives. Hunters are encouraged to have their elk tested for chronic wasting disease by bringing the head to a Game and Fish regional office or hunter check station. Mandatory sampling is required for all elk harvested in Hunt Areas 75 (Grand Teton National Park) and 77 (National Elk Refuge).
Moose
All or parts of the Jackson, Sublette and Targhee herds are found in the region, and all are managed under a special management strategy to provide recreational opportunities while maintaining a harvest of older age-class bulls. While moose numbers continue to remain below desired levels, hunters lucky enough to draw a license should experience high success and have a good chance of harvesting a bull. With limited license availability, data from harvested moose is particularly useful to managers for herd and harvest assessment and management. Moose hunters are encouraged to submit the two front incisors (lower teeth) from their harvested moose for aging. Successful hunters are also encouraged to bring their moose head to the Jackson Game and Fish regional office for sampling to help with ongoing disease surveillance such as chronic wasting disease, carotid artery worms, etc.
Bighorn sheep
The Jackson (Hunt Area 7) and Targhee (Hunt Area 6) bighorn sheep herds are found in the region. All sheep hunters (including ewe hunters) are reminded that they are required to register their sheep at a Game and Fish office within 15 days of harvest.
Survey data in Area 7 indicates good availability of rams with ¾ curl or longer horns, with an average success rate in recent years of over 60%. Sheep numbers in Hunt Area 7 are at management objectives and need to be maintained. In previous years, when sheep numbers have increased above objective, the population has experienced significant mortality events due to pneumonia outbreaks. The Type 6 ewe season structure in 2024 has a lower quota and a season extension into November in order to maintain current population numbers. Ewe sheep hunters should plan for a remote, backcountry bighorn sheep hunt. Hunters willing to spend the time and effort should have a high opportunity for success. Type 6 ewe hunters should expect that most ewes will be found at high elevations of typically 9,000 feet or more during the archery and rifle seasons. Ewe hunters may hunt within the Gros Ventre drainage, which includes all tributaries that flow into the main drainage including Crystal Creek, Shorty Creek, East and West Miner Creeks.
In area 6, success rates vary substantially between years, but the average age of harvested sheep has been 7-8 years old. The regular season opens earlier in the northern portion of the herd in an effort to encourage a more even distribution of harvest throughout the herd. This is a challenging hunt due to terrain and the fact that most sheep reside in Grand Teton National Park and are unavailable to hunters. However, it also provides a unique and exceptional opportunity to hunt sheep in a spectacular setting.
Mountain goat
In response to a decline in the number of goats counted during the 2022 midsummer trend count, the quota for Hunt Area 2 mountain goat licenses were reduced for the 2023 and 2024 seasons. The Palisades herd still offers hunters the opportunity to harvest trophy-class billies that typically are at least 5 years old. Hunter success is usually high at between 90-100% and made up primarily of older age-class billies. The next mid-summer trend count is scheduled for 2024.
The Hunt Area 4 Type A license was removed for the 2024 season, effectively closing Area 4. The management objective for Area 4 is to reduce mountain goat numbers in the Teton Range and minimize their expansion into important bighorn sheep habitats of the Targhee herd. License availability is not warranted due to the low population level.
Bison
The Jackson bison herd is at the annual trend count objective, with an increasing population trend. Weather is a substantial factor in harvest success for this herd. For example, harvest in 2022 was an anomaly with 92% success and dropped to 39% in 2023. In general, recent trends by which mild weather and aversion to hunting pressure on the National Elk Refuge have resulted in delayed or lack of movement from Grand Teton National Park into the open hunt area on the refuge. These conditions make it difficult to achieve harvest, often with an extremely limited number of days when bison are available for harvest on the refuge, if at all. Some bull hunting occurs on national forest lands, but bison availability there is intermittent and low, and access can be challenging. For this reason, license holders are encouraged to capitalize on any harvest opportunity available as opposed to selecting for bulls only.
There will be two bison hunt periods on the National Elk Refuge during the 2024 season. License holders who wish to hunt on the National Elk Refuge from August 15 - January 1 must obtain a permission slip through the Game and Fish website. Bison hunters with a permission slip may access the refuge at any time during this time period. Permission slips will be available online beginning August 1. License holders who wish to hunt on the National Elk Refuge after January 1 must obtain a hand-written permission slip through the Wyoming Game and Fish Department Jackson Regional Office (420 North Cache Street) during business hours (Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). These permission slips will be issued for several days or a week at a time until January 31, or until the criteria are met to begin elk supplemental feeding on the National Elk Refuge, whichever happens first.
Bison hunters are reminded that they must obtain a harvest reporting card, tooth envelope, and blood collection tube at the Jackson Game and Fish office before their hunt.
Upland/small game
Due to the small and isolated population of sage grouse in the region, no hunting seasons are offered. Hunters interested in upland game birds can find some of the best blue (dusky) and ruffed grouse habitats in the state. Seasons run from September through December. Late-season hunters need to be mindful of winter range closures in some areas that begin in December.
Weather/drought influences
Mule deer and pronghorn that summer in the Jackson region and winter in the Pinedale region will take multiple years of favorable weather conditions to recover from the 2022-23 winter. The 2023 summer habitat conditions were excellent. Spring 2024, however, appears to be relatively hot and dry. The Jackson region represents a small portion of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which is a weather-driven system. Game and Fish managers continue to work with partners to increase habitat resilience and animal movement to increase the ability of wildlife to buffer the impacts of extreme weather events as well as to manage wildlife populations towards management objectives.
Pronghorn
Following extraordinarily severe winter conditions the past several years and continued poor fawn production throughout much of the region, hunters can expect to once again see fewer mature animals this fall. Throughout the region, buck numbers and quality are expected to be lower than in past years. As a result, license numbers remain relatively low in 2024 and there will be fewer hunters in the field. Those hunters who drew a license should expect good harvest success with a bit more effort to select a buck from fewer animals.
Deer
Throughout most of the region, mule deer populations continue to decline. With several years of reduced fawn recruitment resulting in the loss of at least three age classes, mule deer numbers remain below management objectives. Antler-point restrictions will continue in hunt areas near Lander and Rawlins. Elsewhere, hunters will have opportunities for similar harvest success as in past years — mostly with young bucks. Continued any white-tailed deer seasons are in place in the Dubois, Lander, Riverton and Jeffrey City areas. Hunters should expect tougher mule deer hunting and likely lower success compared to last year.
Elk
Populations are doing well across the region and have been relatively unaffected by previous year’s winter conditions. Last year’s calf production remained on par with past years and should result in continued, robust numbers. Observed bull numbers remained strong during mid-winter surveys. If favorable weather conditions are realized during the fall, hunters should experience excellent harvest opportunities.
Moose
Moose are at or below desired levels, and the hunting season framework includes continued conservative quotas. However, more moose were counted in Hunt Areas 2 and 30 the past three years, and it appears this population is stable, so license issuance was increased for the 2024 hunting season. Winter counts in the Dubois country continue to yield fewer moose and remain at historically low levels. Hunters fortunate enough to draw a license can expect good harvest success in the region.
Bighorn sheep
Lamb production in the Whiskey Mountain herd was higher than in previous years, but is still low and continues to be a concern. Lamb productivity has been depressed in the herd for more than 30 years and while it has impacted population growth, there are rams available for harvest. Those who draw a tag in these areas should expect to see fewer rams than in the past, but should experience reasonable success depending on their expectations. The Ferris-Seminoe herd (Hunt Areas 17 and 26) continues to grow and has reached its objective. As a result, license issuance for ewes/lambs was increased by 10 for the 2024 season. Also, four Type 2 licenses valid for rams with less than a three-quarters curl were implemented to increase harvest on the male segment of the herd to reduce the probability of rams wandering outside the herd unit. Wandering rams often find themselves moving through or mingling with domestic livestock, contracting harmful pathogens, and returning to their herd or another herd and can cause catastrophic disease events. The Type 2 license will help to reduce this risk by decreasing ram numbers while maintaining older, aged rams in the population. Thirty ewe/lamb licenses (Type 6 and 7) were issued in the herd unit (27 in Area 17 and three in Area 26) in addition to the eight Type 1 any ram licenses (six in Area 17 and two in Area 26). Hunting should be excellent this fall.
Upland game
Relatively wet and mild spring conditions will likely favor sage grouse, dusky grouse, ruffed grouse, pheasants, chukars, and gray partridge productivity. Hunters will likely see more birds as a result of another year of anticipated increased chick survival.
Pheasant hunting at the Sand Mesa and Ocean Lake wildlife habitat management areas continues to be popular with hunters throughout the state. The one-day youth hunt at Sand Mesa and Ocean Lake is Saturday, Nov. 16.
Small game
Cottontail rabbit populations seem to be down, and in some places quite significantly. Snowshoe hares and red squirrels appear to be similar to 2023 within the region, and harvest opportunities should be good.
Weather conditions
The majority of the region experienced a relatively mild winter in 2023-24 and has enjoyed good spring moisture and vegetation production. Over-winter survival should have been near normal levels and fawn/calf production in 2024 should be similar.
Pronghorn
Herds throughout the Laramie Region are slowly recovering from long-term drought conditions as well as the 2022-23 winter. Slight changes to license issuance and season dates will provide more opportunities, particularly in the northern portion of the Medicine Bow herd (Hunt Area 32) and Centennial herd (Hunt Areas 37 and 45). Grassland herds within the Laramie Plains and east of the Laramie Mountains, which include Hunt Areas 11, 34, 38 and 103, have declined the past seven years, along with notable decreases in fawn production. Decent buck numbers remain in these herds, but older animals will be harder to find. Mild winter conditions reduced stress on pregnant does, however lack of spring and summer precipitation does not bode well for fawn survival, especially east of the Laramie Range. Overall, hunting opportunities within the Laramie Region will be similar to previous years with a slight uptick in Bates Hole country.
Mule deer
Mild winter conditions most likely had a positive effect on herds throughout the region, especially compared to the previous year’s winter. However, below-average spring and summer precipitation was not favorable for lactating does and newborn fawns. Herds throughout the Laramie Region are all below their respective population objectives which translates to less opportunity and harder hunting conditions. Chronic wasting disease continues to slowly increase across herd units. The Goshen Rim herd has the highest prevalence at 39% and herds that were at 9% five years ago are now around 15%. Unfortunately, this is not good news for mule deer populations.
Hunters taking to the field in Hunt Area 70 need to be aware that the area is under mandatory CWD sampling. Wildlife biologists, wildlife technicians and game wardens will be in full force throughout the seven-day season collecting CWD samples at check stations to assist hunters with collection efforts. More information will be coming on check station locations, CWD head box locations and other places that hunters can take their harvested mule deer to get sampled.
Elk
Populations remain above objectives with ample harvest opportunities throughout the region. The Type 8 license is new this year in Hunt Areas 3, 6, 7 and 8. This reduced-price cow/calf license is unlimited in number, however, hunting limitations in each hunt area vary so hunters are encouraged to read the regulations to familiarize them with the differences. Bull hunting opportunities continue to be favorable throughout the region, even in general hunt areas. Given hunting pressure on public land, sportspersons should be prepared to pursue elk in areas that are a fair distance from well-traveled roads and trails. Look for additional access opportunities on properties enrolled in the Game and Fish Access Yes program, and be sure to secure a permission slip if needed.
Bighorn sheep
Hunting should be excellent throughout the Laramie Region. Hunt areas 18 and 21 were stand-alone areas for the first time in 2023 and hunters had high success. Prior to 2023, hunting opportunities in areas 18 and 21 were managed together. Last year marked the first year that the two areas had separate tags, and hunters had high success. This high success is expected to be repeated in 2024. With the implementation of the 90-10 license allocation, license issuance went from eight to 10 in Hunt Area 19 and hunters experienced 90% success last year, with the average age of harvested bighorn sheep at 8 years old.
Moose
Again this fall, hunters with moose licenses are expected to have excellent hunting opportunities in the Snowy Range herd. Harvest success across Type 1 and Type 4 licenses continues to be exceptional, and the herd maintains high bull ratios and good calf production. Vegetation regrowth from the Mullen Fire is expected to improve moose habitat.
Upland game
Below-average precipitation across the region should result in average to below-average brood survival for upland game birds, particularly sharp-tailed grouse, pheasants and sage grouse. Dusky or blue grouse should be in better shape given decent precipitation events in the higher elevations as well as vegetation recovery within the Mullen Fire burn scar. Game and Fish will continue to stock pheasants for the Springer Special Pheasant Hunt, as well as for the general season throughout November and a portion of December on the Springer WHMA and in areas enrolled in the Access Yes program. Release sites will be available to the public prior to Nov. 1, the opening date for the general pheasant season.
Weather conditions
Winter conditions were milder compared to the winter of 2022-23, however, spring and summer precipitation has been below average, particularly in lower elevations, so range conditions are in poor shape compared to previous years. Managers will monitor deer and pronghorn populations throughout the summer and early fall to determine if there are any major die-offs due to viral diseases like blue tongue or hemorrhagic disease.
Pronghorn
The region encompasses the northern portion of the Sublette herd, one of the largest in the nation, and includes Hunt Areas 87-91 and 101. The 2022-23 winter was exceptionally harsh, which combined with an outbreak of the novel, pneumonia-causing bacteria Mycoplasma bovis, resulted in substantially elevated winter mortality for pronghorn in the region. Nearly 2,000 licenses were cut as a result for the 2023 hunting seasons, including all doe/fawn tags and approximately 80% of buck tags, to maximize the opportunity for the herd to rebound in future years. License allocation was restrictive for the 2024 seasons to promote herd recovery. Hunters lucky enough to draw a buck pronghorn license in these hunt areas should expect to see far fewer pronghorn.
Mule deer
Portions of the Sublette and Wyoming Range herds are managed in the region, including Hunt Areas 130, 138-143, 146, 153 and 154. Both herds include relatively large populations with special management strategies designed to provide high-quality hunting opportunities and at least 30 bucks per 100 does, and large-antlered, older-aged deer are harvested annually from both herds. Above-average snow depths and colder than normal temperatures during the 2022-23 winter resulted in above-average winter mortality in the Wyoming Range, and near-average mortality in the Sublette herd. While the winter of 2023-24 was exceptionally mild with excellent survival, hunters in the Wyoming Range herd should expect to see far fewer deer than normal this fall, and those hunting the Sublette herd will likely see fewer bucks than in recent years. Mule deer enthusiasts should remember that periodic elevated winter mortality is common in these herds, resulting in wide fluctuations in population abundance trends over time. While the populations are currently in the trough of the trend, these herds have demonstrated the ability to rebound relatively fast given several consecutive winters of below-to-average severity.
White-tailed deer
Small populations may be found near riparian habitats, and all deer hunt areas in the region offer the opportunity for harvest during the general season. Additionally, 50 limited quota Type 3 licenses provide the opportunity to harvest any white-tailed deer from Oct. 1-Nov. 30 in Hunt Areas 138-143.
Elk
Nearly 10,000 elk in three herd units are managed in the region. Liberal seasons provide hunters with ample opportunities, especially for antlerless elk, with all general seasons providing opportunity to harvest a cow or calf elk until Nov. 20. Bull numbers remain strong, with ratios ranging from 26 bulls per 100 cows in the Pinedale herd, 30 bulls per 100 cows in the Piney herd and 33 bulls per 100 cows in the Upper Green River herd. The herds remain productive, with an average of 31 calves per 100 cows region-wide, indicating stable to growing populations. Bull harvest in 2023 was near average with many nice bulls taken, but cow elk harvest was less than average as temperatures remained mild into November and snow did not push herds into more accessible lower-elevation areas. Managers expect that 2024 should offer excellent elk hunting opportunities.
Moose
The Sublette herd is managed under a special management strategy to provide recreational opportunities while maintaining an average harvest age of 4 years for bulls to maintain trophy quality. This herd has a winter trend count objective of 1,500, and the population has been stable to slightly increasing over the last decade. A total of 125 bull and five antlerless licenses were offered for the 2024 hunting season. Hunters are advised to not be discouraged when scouting or hunting for moose during the early season when warm temperatures can drive moose into forested habitats where they are generally less visible. Moose hunters who hunt during the later portion of the season typically encounter more moose. Hunter success for the moose hunt areas in the region averaged 92% over the past five years and should again be high this season.
Bighorn sheep
The Darby Mountain herd and a portion of the Whiskey Mountain herd are managed by the region. The Darby Mountain herd continues to be stable with sufficient adult rams available to justify one license for any ram going to a resident for Hunt Area 24 in 2024. The overall population is struggling in the Whiskey Mountain herd due partially to chronic pneumonia and poor lamb recruitment. However, non-migratory bighorn sheep numbers observed during winter flights in Hunt Area 8 appear to be mostly stable, and two licenses were issued to residents this season.
Small game
Observations of male sage grouse on leks during the spring indicate populations are onthe upswing after having been at a low point the last several years, so hunters should expect to see more sage grouse this fall. Decent populations of dusky and ruffed grouse can be found in forested habitats and provide hunting opportunities from September through December. Rabbit hunters can chase cottontails and snowshoe hares until the end of March, and populations appear to be increasing. Late-season hunters need to be mindful of winter range closures in some areas that begin in November and December.
Habitat conditions
The winter of 2023-24 provided an average snowpack in the mountains. Lower than normal precipitation and very warm temperatures during the growing season resulted in reduced herbaceous plant production and leader growth on shrub species throughout the region. Reduced foraging opportunities on summer and transitional habitats is anticipated to negatively impact body condition of wildlife entering this winter. Hunters should anticipate that many game animals will be distributed near water sources this season if late summer/early fall conditions continue to be hot and dry.
On Aug. 21, 2024, multiple fires started in northeast Wyoming after storms moved through the area. The fires are at various levels of containment. These fires are currently burning within Elk Hunt Area 129, Antelope Hunt Areas 16, 17, 22, and Deer Hunt Areas 17, 26, and 29.
Stay updated on the wildfire impacts to hunting areas in northeast Wyoming.
The forecast below was written before the wildfires occurred.
Pronghorn
Pronghorn herds in the Sheridan Region have fluctuated in recent years due to prolonged drought, disease (Mycoplasma bovis, epizootic hemorrhagic disease and bluetongue virus) and severe winters in 2018-19 and 2022-23. While most populations are below objective they have been trending upward. The mild winter of 2023-24 and favorable range conditions from this spring should help fawn recruitment. Pronghorn hunting seasons for 2024 are similar to last year with some areas having slight increases in quotas. These adjustments should help populations reach desired levels while still maintaining ample harvest opportunities for hunters. Land ownership in much of the region is predominantly private, and access to public lands is difficult. Hunters are encouraged to make arrangements for private land access. Hunter densities on many accessible tracts of public land can be high, especially on opening day and weekends. Hunters who plan hunts later in the season or midweek often see less crowding.
Mule deer
Mule deer numbers in the Sheridan Region have been trending downward since 2019 and herd units are below objective. Poor range health, drought, severe winters and disease have all contributed to this decline. Observed fawn ratios around the region have improved since 2023, however, suppressed doe/fawn ratios will take several years to recover. While there is a significant desire to increase deer numbers, some areas range conditions are currently so poor that they cannot support additional deer. Multiple habitat projects are ongoing in the region to improve range conditions. Hunting seasons for 2024 are very similar to 2023 with reductions in doe/fawn licenses. Hunters should expect difficult access to private lands and some overcrowding on accessible public lands. Some access opportunities for deer and pronghorn are available on walk-in hunting and hunter management areas. These areas can be found under the public access tab on the Game and Fish website.
White-tailed deer
White-tailed deer numbers in the Sheridan Region are starting to rebound from back-to-back EHD and bluetongue virus outbreaks in 2021 and 2022. Managers are still managing this population with very liberal hunting seasons to address damage to private property. Private land refugia and subdivision development along riparian corridors has made white-tailed deer management a challenge for managers in multiple locations. Hunting seasons and quotas in 2024 will look similar to previous years. Most white-tailed deer are found on private land with limited public land hunting opportunities. Landowners are encouraged to reduce deer densities through hunter harvest to address damage complaints, browsing pressure on shrub communities and help limit CWD prevalence and spread.
Elk
There has never been a better time to hunt elk in the Sheridan Region than right now. Hunt areas are at or slightly above objectives and managers have set liberal hunting seasons to encourage antlerless elk harvest. In two hunt areas, 123 and 129, a new Type 8 license will allow hunters the opportunity to purchase an unlimited number of cow/calf elk licenses valid only on private land. This same license type has been available for white-tailed deer doe/fawn hunting for the past several years and has been very successful in helping landowners manage numbers on their property. Hunters who were successful in drawing a limited quota elk license in one of the many hunt areas that make up the Bighorn Mountains should have plenty of opportunities to harvest an elk. Off the Bighorn National Forest, much of the hunting opportunities are found on private land and hunters are reminded to secure access prior to their hunt.
Moose
For those lucky few who drew a limited quota moose license in the Sheridan Region, hunting should be excellent this fall. Moose in the Bighorn Mountains are doing very well with a good number of mature bulls on the landscape. Moose quotas were changed slightly in 2024 to accommodate for the 90/10 split between residents and nonresidents. Multiple moose research projects are wrapping up right now which will inform moose management in the future.
Upland game
A mild winter combined with well-timed spring precipitation has been favorable for upland game brood rearing in 2024. Residual nesting cover was excellent and many biologists and game wardens have reported seeing larger than average broods. While sage grouse hunting in the majority of the region is closed (Hunt Area 4), hunting for other game bird species should be better than in 2023. Wild turkey numbers are doing well and liberal seasons allow hunters to have up to three fall turkey licenses until the Type 3 quota is exhausted. The Sheridan Bird Farm had another excellent year, and staff will release pheasants throughout the season on publicly accessible land. For those who hunt in those areas where pheasants are released, don’t forget to purchase your Pheasant Management Stamp.
Migratory game birds, statewide
Lower elevation precipitation has been variable this past spring and summer throughout the state, but was generally less favorable for wetlands and waterfowl production. Conditions in the Prairie Potholes of the U.S. and Canada are variable but below average in Alberta, where many of Wyoming’s harvested ducks are produced. Migration chronology and weather, as well as hunter efforts of scouting for birds and obtaining permission to hunt private land when necessary, will influence the success of migratory bird hunters throughout the state.
Before heading out be sure to review the 2024 hunting regulations for any season changes.
Ducks
Most of Wyoming’s migrating ducks come from the U.S. and Canadian prairies. Initial reports indicate dry conditions in southern Alberta, northern Montana and parts of the Dakotas. Overall habitat conditions appear mixed for duck production, and local conditions in much of Wyoming appear fair to below average.
Dark geese
Canada geese harvested in the state come from two populations. The Rocky Mountain population can be found west of the Continental Divide in the Wind River and Bighorn River basins and in western Carbon and Natrona counties. Large geese found in eastern Wyoming belong to the Hi-Line population. Goose numbers in recent years have been consistently high. Canada goose numbers during hunting season are usually driven by winter conditions and there should be plenty of geese present should the weather cooperate.
Mourning doves
Production within Wyoming in 2024 appears to be below average, likely due to the precipitation and dryer-than-usual conditions that extended well into the summer. The majority of doves will migrate out of the state with the first cold snap, which usually occurs between late-August and mid-September. Doves from northern areas migrate through the state in mid-September and good hunting can still be found after the first few days of the season.
Sandhill crane
Cranes that migrate through eastern Wyoming — Hunt Area 7 — are primarily from the Mid-Continent population, which has been relatively stable since the early 1980s and exceeds the established objective range of 349,000–472,000 cranes. Cranes that breed and stage in central and western Wyoming (Hunt Areas 1-6 and 8) are from the Rocky Mountain population. Cranes in Hunt Areas 4 and 6 tend to roost and feed in the same locations every year. Roost locations in Hunt Area 4 are Hidden Valley, Riverview Valley and the south side of Ocean Lake. Roost locations in Hunt Area 6 are north of Worland, the Otto area, from Powell to Ralston and Ralston Reservoir. For best success, scout for cranes prior to the season and obtain permission to access the fields they use.
Sage grouse
One major change for 2024 is that all licensed sage grouse hunters — daily, annual, Pioneer and lifetime license holders — will be required to carry an annual, free sage grouse hunting permit to help Game and Fish further expand efforts to survey sage grouse hunters on their hunt experience. The permit will be available at Game and Fish offices and online through the Game and Fish website.
In Hunt Area 1, which covers the western half of Wyoming, the 2024 hunting season is similar to last year with the exception of a date shift to keep opening day anchored to the third Saturday in September. Hunt Area 1 opens Sept. 21 and closes Sept. 30. Hunt Area 4, which covers northeast Wyoming, is closed. Sage grouse populations appear to be trending upward in most areas as their population cycle continues. As a result, hunters should expect moderate rates of success. The number of birds harvested each year is strongly related to hatching success and over-summer chick survival.
